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Manager Paddy Burns also notes that consumers are shifting to online buying. “It is, more than ever, vital to be in stock,” he said, “as empty shelves will lead to further shift to online purchase as consumers search for the products they want.” Grocery retailers are improving, though, says Ms Sackville, who believes they have recently “stepped up their game”. “They \[now\] have fresh fridges dedicated to pet meats, they have new brands on shelf that have a far more premium feel, and some stores even have a DIY dog treat station reflecting the look of a nut or lolly,” she said. “I think these improvements serve their purpose to make the everyday shopper feel like they’re getting a premium offering at a lower price.” Considering that Australia has one of the highest pet ownership rates in the world, Ms Sackville adds that “any retailer that can encourage a shopper to purchase pet food on their weekly shop has just secured a customer for the next 10-15 years”. Bell & Bone promotes health and wellbeing Bell & Bone is described as “essentially” a health and wellbeing brand for pets. The brand works closely with market experts such as a pet nutritionist, food technologist and vet scientist to develop dog treats and dental sticks that are said to be in line with health food trends and expectations. “All products are made in Melbourne, are grain (gluten) free and contain natural ingredients, including superfoods such as turmeric, chia seeds, coconut oil and ginger,” Ms Sackville said. “We keep away from cheap fillers and don’t compromise on our values, providing shoppers with a transparent ingredient list, and dogs with healthy treats to love.” Bell & Bone offers three different ranges – dental sticks, raw dog treats and puppy training treats – promoting healthy skin and coat, immunity boosting and dental health as some of its key health benefits. When it comes to challenges, Bell & Bone pinpoints market saturation and lack of industry regulation. “We work with experts to create leading products from a nutritional and commercial perspective,” Ms Sackville said. “Our messaging is clear, based on expert opinion and science to encourage better health and wellbeing for dogs. As the ACCC doesn’t regulate the pet food category as closely as they do for human consumption, barriers to entry are low, often leaving the agenda of health to the opinion of mums and dads pushing product. There are countless pet food brands and as a result we all have a great challenge of being noticed in this crowded space.” As Bell & Bone’s founder, Ms Sackville says she spends a lot of time communicating with customers, educating them and helping them make good choices about pet treats. “We rely heavily on our community to advocate for us, and we haven’t been let down yet,” she said. “Through COVID, Bell & Bone has seen significant growth, which can be attributed to great customer service and relationships, providing healthy options that owners understand and believe in, and providing value for our customers in terms of generous serves for reasonable prices.” TO PAGE 60 PET NEEDS Breeders Choice CAT LITTER CHOOSE BETTER. CHOOSE GINGER. ✓- Natural odour control - Highly absorbent - 99% recycled paper - Free from silica & clay - Soft on little paws - Proudly Australian made fibrecycle.com orders@fibrecycle.com.au AUG, 2020 RETAIL WORLD 59